“We regret to inform you that we are not able to release the Batmobile Collector's Edition of Batman: Arkham Knight due to unforeseen circumstances that greatly compromised the quality of this extremely limited run of product.”

The cancellation was announced on Wednesday, less than a week before the game's launch. Customers who pre-ordered this edition are advised to contact their retailer where refunds are available.

These “unforeseen circumstances” appear to suggest a problem with the quality of the transformable Batmobile statue, manufactured by Triforce, which was the main feature of the collector's edition.

As a gesture of goodwill, Rocksteady is making the New 52 skin pack, including Batman, Robin, and Nightwing, available free of charge to everyone who purchases the game.

Meanwhile the Limited Edition of Batman: Arkham Knight has also run into trouble. Listed as 'currently unavailable' by Amazon, those who pre-ordered this edition have been informed that the product has been delayed. The retailer said;

"The manufacturer has advised us that there's been a packaging quality issue."

Fans have been assured that the product will be available no later than July 14. Amazon will also be issuing download codes to those affected by the delay so they can still play the game at launch.

Batman: Arkham Knight will be released on PS4, Xbox One, and PC on June 23.